Kewpie Community Blogs Newsletter Sriracha: What It Is, Flavor Profile, and Why It’s The Perfect Ingredient for KEWPIE Spicy Mayo
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Sriracha: What It Is, Flavor Profile, and Why It’s The Perfect Ingredient for KEWPIE Spicy Mayo

While sriracha is not the spiciest hot sauce available, it is probably one of the most popular choices out there. Known for its distinct taste, its flavor profile makes it one of the most versatile sauces that can be used as a condiment, a cooking ingredient or a dipping sauce. 

Sriracha is even more delicious with KEWPIE Spicy mayo, a perfect complement to sushi, sandwiches, burgers and more.

What Is Sriracha?

Sriracha Hot Sauce originates from Thailand. First created by Thanom Chakkapak in Si Racha, Thailand, in the 1930s, this smooth and thick sauce features a combination of salt, sugar, vinegar, garlic and red jalapeno peppers. During the 1980s, sriracha became popularized across the world by Vietnamese immigrant David Tran and his iconic “rooster sauce” that is distributed by Huy Fong Foods.

Is Sriracha Spicy?

If you’ve never had sriracha before, you may expect it to be extra spicy due to its bold red hue. In actuality, it’s much milder than many other popular hot sauce brands, measuring about 2,200 Scoville Heat Units. While you may feel the heat soon after the sauce hits your taste buds, the immediate flavor is garlicky and sweet rather than intense and unforgiving. For these reasons, it’s an excellent condiment to enjoy on its own or when combined with other sauces to create a distinct flavor profile.

Does Sriracha Go Bad?

While sriracha can go bad, it has a very long shelf life because of its high vinegar and salt content. If it turns from a bright red hue to a dark brown or even blackish color, it is probably past its prime. You should also throw it out if it separates significantly or if it becomes thick or clumpy.

Does Sriracha Need To Be Refrigerated?

You don’t need to refrigerate sriracha, even after opening it up. But you should store it somewhere cool and dark (like your pantry). To maintain optimal flavor or texture, it is recommended to refrigerate it once you open it. Once you open a bottle, it should be safe to eat for about 6 months up to a year.

Why It Works With KEWPIE Mayonnaise

KEWPIE Mayonnaise is a Japanese-style condiment that is known for its umami and creaminess. When mixed with Sriracha, it creates a unique texture with a kick that works great as a dip, spread or dressing.

Here are some other reasons why this combination works well:

  • Cuts through richness – Sriracha has a high chili and vinegar content. This provides an acidic cut that pierces through the richness of KEWPIE Mayonnaise. It complements the egg-yolk base of KEWPIE with a bright spiciness to create a savory finish.
  • Complimentary tanginess – Rice vinegar (as well as cider vinegar) are key ingredients found in KEWPIE Japanese Mayonnaise. They add a sweet tanginess that contrasts perfectly with the garlicky flavor profile of sriracha.
  • Enhances umami flavors – KEWPIE Mayonnaise and sriracha mixed together create a flavorful fusion that elevates the umami savoriness of dishes like sushi, fried chicken and even French fries.
  • Smooth texture – KEWPIE Mayonnaise has an almost custard-like texture and is smoother than American mayonnaise. When paired with sriracha, it creates a silky-smooth, thick sauce that produces a rich creaminess with a zesty heat.

Like any great culinary couple, Sriracha and KEWPIE Mayonnaise are great on their own, but spectacular when combined together with the new KEWPIE Spicy Mayo. The next time you’re feeling creative in the kitchen, be sure to give this dynamic duo a try whenever you’re in the mood for creamy, tangy heat.